TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival) is one of the most exciting times of year in Toronto - and one of my favourite things to experience each year! I would get a bit down the past couple of years around this time knowing that I wasn't able to indulge in the fantastic and diverse films shown at the Festival.

The sheer number of films shown at TIFF is mind bogling and can be hard to sift through all the terrific picks on offer. To help narrow it down, below are the films that I am most looking forward to this year:

To get the best chance of getting tickets to your top picks, here are a few suggestions:

Load the TIFF website the morning of September 3rd before the portal for tickets opens at 10am so you're ready. Once the clock hits 10am, click to purchase tickets. You'll likely need to wait in a queue, but the sooner you do it, the higher up you'll be in line.

Have your wish list of films prepared ahead of time. Once your slot in the queue opens, you'll only have a limited period of time to select and purchase your films. You don't want to waste time researching the 300+ films on offer during your slot!

In addition to your wish list, make sure you have your back-ups selected as well. The Gala and Special Presentation films are hardest to get. However, note that you have a pretty good chance at seeing the biggest films when they are replayed later in the festival (and usually less expensive).

Rush tickets are a great option to try and see any films that you don't get tickets for. To get these tickets, you need to go to the venue early ahead of time to line up. Essentially, all ticket holders will be let in first; TIFF staff will then determine how many free spots are in the theatre and will let that amount of people in during the 10 minutes prior to the film starting. Have cash in hand ready to purchase quickly as this is the only form of payment accepted. Tickets are $20 for regular screenings and $40 for premium screenings.

If you haven't got tickets to any of the films (or even if you do), head down to the King West area between Roy Thomson Hall and the TIFF Bell Lightbox to take in all the excitement, buzz and activities, and maybe catch a glimpse of a few celebrities!

In May, the wedding of the year took place when Prince Harry married Meghan Markle. Being a big fan of the royal family, as well as missing the UK after being away for a few months, it was the perfect time for a visit.

I feel so lucky that I was in the crowds in Windsor for the Royal Wedding, soaking up the atmosphere and being part of history. I also had the opportunity to takeover Flare Magazine's Instagram Account by sharing InstaStories throughout the day to give followers a taste of what it was like to be there on the ground.

The weather couldn't have been more beautiful, being in the crowd felt like a festival atmosphere, and Windsor looked so lovely all dressed up with rows of bunting. There was an incredible amount of world media, large and small, in attendance. I watched a live segment of the Today Show broadcasting from the front open window of a pub, and saw the amazing Gayle King up close shooting Instagram Stories.

If you ever have a chance to experience a royal event, try and go. There is nowhere in the world that does an event like this with so much tradition, pomp, and pageantry like the UK!

The Broad was founded by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad, who have been building their collection of postwar and contemporary art over the last five decades. There are two floors of gallery space spread over 120,000 square feet, and is the headquarters of The Broad Art Foundation's worldwide lending library which has been loaning collection works to museums globally since 1984. The museum also regularly hosts engaging temporary exhibitions.

The Broad is free to visit, however you need to pre-book a ticket in order to secure entry due to its popularity. If you don't have tickets, there is an online standby line that you can join to get in on a first-come first-served basis. During holiday weekends, the wait time in the standby line can be up to two to three hours. There is so much to see and take in so try to allow yourself at least two hours to enjoy it.

Downtown LA is ready for its close-up!

This tour will focus in on the historic buildings, public art, and picturesque views of DTLA with your eyes AND your cameras. We’ll check out some of the most attractive hidden spots and overlooked details of downtown Los Angeles, and explore different ideas, tips and tricks for capturing them on film. Whether they’re intended for Instagram, your Facebook profile, or a family holiday card, your photos from this tour will be unique! We may even get a rooftop shot of our beautiful City of Angels!

Tour cost is $20 for adults (ages 13 and over), $5 for children (ages 5 - 12) and free for toddlers 4 and under. Processing fees are added at time of checkout. This is a two hour tour starting at 3:00 pm and ending at 5:00 pm.

Tickets are going fast and there are only five left! I'd love to meet you and enjoy seeing some of DTLA's coolest spots. You can buy your tickets here.

"With just one polka dot, nothing can be achieved.

In the universe, there is the sun, the moon, the earth, and hundreds of millions of stars. All of us live in the unfathomable mystery and infinitude of the universe."

- Yayoi Kusama

I can't remember when I first heard about Yayoi Kusama and her stunning Infinity Mirrors exhibit, but Ido know that I've been wanting and trying to see it for years. It has seemed like wherever I have travelled, the show has either just finished or is starting after I leave!

When I heard last year that the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) was going to be hosting this exhibition (the only Canadian city to do so), I've eagerly awaited its arrival. Last week, I had the opportunity to attend the media preview of this extraordinary show, which officially opened to members of the public this past weekend to overwhelming demand.

When the AGO opened the booking portal for tickets in January, thousands and thousands of people logged in, waiting for hours to snag a ticket to one of the hottest shows of the year. In three days, the AGO sold an astonishing 30,000 tickets, selling out well before the show opened! One of the most exciting things about this show is that it is drawing attention and a younger audience to the AGO, generating energy and excitement which will hopefully continue into the future attracting more shows like this one. For myself, this show inspired me to buy a membership to the AGO to explore everything the Gallery has to offer and engage in new ways.

Infinity Mirrors and the dreamworlds they create in six immersive rooms have to be seen in person to get the full effect. Yes, they look beautiful in photos, but are even more dazzling to experience. These worlds were created by Yayoi Kusama, the brilliantly talented 88 year old artist who lives in Tokyo (voluntarily in a mental hospital since 1977), and still actively creates art today. In addition to experiencing six of Kusama's most iconic works, there are more than 90 paintings (including her early Infinity Net paintings), sculptures, photographs, rare archival materials, and works on paper from the 1950s to current day to see.

In addition to the ticketed exhibit, you can see her 'Narcissus Garden' installation on the second floor (on view from February 24 - April 29, 2018), a beautiful 'garden' made of mirrored balls, which is open to general admission.

Kusama has been creating art and breaking new ground for over 60 years. During her time in New York (between 158 - 1973), Kusama moved in circles with fellow artists Andy Warhol and Allan Kaprow. It was during this time that she began creating her signature polka dot and net designs, transforming them into paintings, soft sculptures, installations, and performance-based art.

The first use of mirrors came with Infinity Mirror Room - Phalli's Field, 1965 (the red-and-white polka dot themed installation), which multiplied and magnified the repetitive effect she was hoping to achieve, transcending physical limitations and creating an immersive experience.

Kusama was the first woman to have a solo presentation at Venice's Biennale's Japanese Pavilion in 1993, and was named on of the world's most influential people by Time Magazine in 2016.

Above, the famous 'Kusama pumpkins' can be viewed in her work called All the Eternal Love I Have for the Pumpkins. You aren't allowed to take photos while inside the room, but you can when outside the door looking in. You will also be escorted inside with a member of staff. This is apparently due to pumpkins being damaged in previous exhibitions held elsewhere and the art is fragile.

The pumpkins first appeared in some of Kusama’s drawings from the late 1940s and has regularly shown up in her paintings, sculptures, drawings and installations. Her first pumpkin mirrored room was staged in 1991 and later at the 1993 Venice Biennale. The concept of this room is for viewers to be transported into a space which recalls fairytales and fantasy.

Love Forever is a trippy feast for your eyes, allowing up to two viewers to look through small peepholes into this room. Looking inside, you can see yourself in a mirror directly opposite as well as the other viewer, making it feel quite voyeuristic. Kusama was experimenting with new technology when she created this room, which features dazzling lights, patterns and colours which change every few seconds. Her 1966 exhibition featured this work and she distributed buttons with her 'Love Forever' message printed on them. For her, this work stood for civil rights, sexual liberation, and the anti-war movement in the 1960s.

The Souls of Millions of Light Years Awaytakes you into a world of lights and mirrors resembling a galaxy. Hundreds of LED lights flicker and sparkle while you are inside activating the environment and becoming immersed into the infinite space. It is absolutely breathtaking to experience! I just wish that you could have longer than the allocated 30 seconds to experience it and really take it in.

Phalli’s Fieldarose from Kusama wanting a new way to create a hallucinatory scene of phallic-like shapes covered in red polka dots. Up until the point this room was created, Kusama had spent much of her time between 1962 and 1964 sewing thousands of stuffed fabric tubes and affixing them to furniture and other objects to create her sculptures; however, this became physically and mentally tiring. Her breakthrough moment came when she began to use mirrors to achieve the repetitive effect she envisioned, transcending her physical limitations, and making it an immersive experience for viewers.

Aftermath of Obliteration of Eternityis another mesmerizing world comprised of flickering gold lanterns that seem to go on forever into black infinite space. Kusama's room is a reflection on the experience of death and potential afterlife, recalling the Japanese tradition of toro nagashi, a ceremony which sees paper lanterns float down a river to guide ancestral spirits back to the resting places on the final night of the summer Obon Festival.

Dots Obsession – Love Transformed Into Dotshas you enter a large gallery room which has a rosy glow from the large pink polka-dotted balloons hanging from the ceiling and placed around the floor. Near the back of the room, you can enter a room inside one of the balloons, feeling a bit like you are entering a fuschia fairy-tale world. On the other end of the room, you get the opposite experience by peering into a small hole into a dazzling pink infinity mirror room.

The Obliteration Roomis the final room of the exhibit. This room invites you to participate in completing the work. Upon entering the stark white room, set up to look like an everyday home with everyday objects, you are handed a sheet of coloured dot stickers and invited to place them anywhere in the room and on objects. I would love to see what this room looks like when the exhibition closes! Kusama's concept of obliteration is to find and create new expression on this white space as the coloured dots invite each visitor to participate on a journey to infinity one dot at a time.

For each of the mirrored rooms, you will join a line to enter. You may have the opportunity to go in by yourself or with two to four other people. You need to leave your bags just outside the exhibit (watched by AGO staff) and can enter for twenty to thirty seconds depending on the room. The staff have a stopwatch to time each entry and will give a soft knock on the door to let you know when five seconds are left. I wish that you could have more time inside the rooms as they are so dazzling and extraordinary that there just isn't enough time to properly take everything in. But, on the other hand, it forces you to be present and enjoy the moments you do have.

This extraordinary show is a visual delight, and you are encouraged to share your photos with the hashtag #infinitekusama. Part of the appeal and high demand to see Kusama's show has been driven through photos shared through Instagram. While you can bring your cameras and smartphones, you cannot bring in tripods or selfie sticks.

There will be a new batch of tickets released by the AGO on Tuesday March 6th at 10am online only. There will also be a very limited number of same-day timed tickets available on-site at the gallery. The show runs from March 3 to May 27, 2018.

In today’s world, I think it’s even more important to be mindful of all aspects of life - being present, being kind, and making meaningful choices in where you spend your time and money.

So - meet the stylish new kid on the block - Nordgreen! How will a watch do this? Because with every watch purchased, Nordgreen gives YOU the choice of how and where to give back to an important global cause.

Your watch can send a child in India to school for a month, provide two months of clean water to a person in the Central African Republic, or preserve 200sq feet of rainforest in Latin America. And, it’s not just lip service - you’ll get a unique code to follow the results of the cause you choose.

For me, this is a game changer. Nordgreen’s Kickstarter started last week to overwhelming interest. Click here to find out more and be one of the first to get in on what the Huffington Post is calling “the next big thing on the Scandinavian Design Scene” (and get in on some amazing early backer deals!).

2018 started in style with a visit to the Royal Ontario Museum's (ROM) Christian Dior exhibit, presented by Holt Renfrew. This beautiful exhibit focuses on the first ten years of Christian Dior haute couture from 1947 - 1957, which also revived Paris's haute couture industry following World War II. The ROM's Senior Curator, Dr Alexandra Palmer, has drawn upon the museum's extensive collection and offers insights into the creative process and mechanics of the fashion industry in Paris during this time period.

It is also the 70th anniversary of the House of Christian Dior, and it is amazing to see so many beautiful day and evening wear designs on display, as well as examples of textiles, patterns, and embroidery. The exhibition looks at the construction of the designs created under Christian Dior, and considers why the cut and design of the clothing made the 'New Look' so successful. The 'New Look' was unveiled on February 12, 1947 when Dior presented his first collection.

The ROM’s significant collection of textiles and fashions is the largest in Canada, and ranks among the top three collections in the world. With over 55,000 pieces, the collection is global and cross-cultural, ranging from BCE to present day, with spectacular examples from across the world. For the past 100 years, this encyclopaedic collection has been recognized as one of the world’s finest, a reputation strengthened by pioneering ROM research, exhibitions, and publications.

This show is grouped thematically to explore. It is arranged by Day Wear (coats, suits, and day dresses), Late Afternoon to Evening (cocktails and dinner dresses), and Evening (ball and formal gowns). Many of the pieces on display were worn in Canada and donated by socialites from the period from cities such as Montreal and Toronto. It was fantastic to learn more about the stories behind the dresses and the women who wore them.

During the exhibition's run, the ROM will be hosting a series of lectures and events to explore different aspects of the groundbreaking work of Dior, including talks by the Director of Dior, Heritage Soizic Pfaff, and fashion historian, Florence Muller. Check out the ROM's website for the full programme and what's coming up. The ROM is also publishing a companion book written by the show's curator, Dr Alexandra Palmer, entitled Christian Dior: History & Modernity 1947 - 1957. It will be available at Holt Renfrew and major book retailers.

The Christian Dior exhibition runs until March 18, 2018. Tickets can be purchased online or in person at the ROM, and is free for members.

One of the cities I'd been wanting to check out for awhile was Zurich. This past October, I finally had the chance to visit! I had also been following the luxury boutique hotel, the Marktgasse Hotel, on Instagram, loving the regular dose of design inspiration from their stylish space. Once I booked my plane ticket to Zurich, I knew right away this is where I wanted to stay.

The Marktgasse Hotel is nestled in the heart of Zurich's Old Town. Situated on the corner of a cobblestone street in a beautiful small square, the hotel offers 39 individually designed and furnished rooms, two fantastic restaurants, and a bar. The building itself is one of the oldest inns in Zurich; the first written reference to the building dates back to 1291! The building was recently carefully renovated between 2013 to 2015 adding quirky touches while preserving and incorporating its heritage into the design details. The interiors are contemporary, light, and bright with high ceilings, large windows, and white walls, with some eclectic design features injecting personality throughout the hotel. I love how unique, historical, and chic the Marktgasse Hotel is as its character and understated luxury made this a memorable stay. Many times during my stay, I didn't hear or see many other guests (even though they were there), so it felt very personal and cozy, almost like I had the hotel to myself! I also had fantastic service from the reception staff while checking in, which is always the sign of quality and makes a difference in kicking your stay off on the right foot.

The hotel's location is fantastic as you can easily walk to many of the city's museums, galleries, and Lake Zurich, as well as being a short walk to the tram and main train station. Located between Bellevue and Central, you can check out sights such as the Kunsthaus (Museum of Modern Art), Schauspielhaus (Theatre), Opernhaus Zurich (Opera House), and Tonhalle (Orchestra), as well as the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology and University of Zurich. Just across the square from the hotel is the famous Cabaret Voltaire, the birthplace of the Dada movement. There are also many beautiful little shops, boutiques, and restaurants in the hotel's neighbourhood of Niederdorf.

Delish and Baltho Restaurant are the two restaurants inside the hotel, both offering excellent food. As a guest, you can have breakfast at Delish on the ground floor of the hotel. I highly recommend their freshly baked, homemade cinnamon buns, which are popular with locals and guests alike, and their shakshuka. You can also have lunch there as they offer in-house smoked fish, regional cheeses, various salads, several types of bread, homemade granola, fresh fruit, and yogurt. They will also give you a takeaway container if you're heading out on a tour or going on a picnic. Don't forget to have a hot coffee by Henauer or tea by Schwarzenbach!

I enjoyed a delicious dinner at the Baltho Restaurant on one of the evenings during my stay. The food and cocktails were absolutely divine. I had the Bang Bang chicken to start, a favourite on their menu, which was bursting with flavour. You can choose a smaller appetizer size of this tasty dish or a larger size as your main. Next, I had a fresh, handmade ravioli dish that was so tasty that I didn't want it to finish. For dessert, I had a local favourite of apple pie and ice cream - the perfect way to top it off. Attached to the restaurant is the cozy bar called Baltho Bar. Like the two restaurants, it is also popular with visitors and locals alike due to their inventive cocktails and extensive list of drinks - you'll want to sample them all!

The Marktgasse Hotel has an inviting lobby featuring some fantastic design pieces, complimentary coffee, and fruit. There is also a cozy library where you can pick a book to read and adjoining salon for guests to enjoy, such as playing a board game. The library and salon can be hired out for business meetings, birthday parties, a reading event, or even a small concert. While the hotel doesn't have a gym on the premises, guests get free access to the Fitnesspark Hamam Münstergasse which is close to the hotel. Here, you can use the Fitness Area, Group Classes, and the Hamam (although treatments are not included).

Each of the 39 rooms are individually furnished with high quality designer pieces and different layouts and floor plans from a small and cozy single room to the spacious Marktgasse Suite. All of the rooms has oak parquet or hard floors. Due to the history of the building (one of the first inns in Zurich), some of the rooms feature heritage-protected details such as stucco, wall panelling, tiled stoves, and columns, as well as some slanted floors and lower ceilings in three of the rooms on the fourth floor. I slept well during my stay due to the cushy white bed linens and premium Schramm mattress. There is free wifi available as well as television with multiple international channels. The chic bathroom was stocked with Aesop products, one of my favourite brands! I had large windows in my bedroom and the bathroom, which was perfect to watch the world go by below and admire the district's beautiful coloured buildings and architecture.

If you're planning a visit to Zurich, I would highly recommend this lovely hotel for a chic, modern, and comfortable stay with terrific service and amenities.

Getting There:

The Marktgasse Hotel is easy to get to, with multiple forms of transport getting you to Zurich and onwards to the hotel:

Train: There is a train from the airport that will take you to the main train station in Zurich (or trains from elsewhere around Switzerland or Europe, of course). From there, you can either walk to the hotel or take the tram.

Tram: Take tram no. 4 or 15 to the Rathaus stop, and walk up Marktgasse, which will only take about a minute. You'll find the hotel on the left on the corner. Or, take bus no. 31 to the Neumarkt stop, walk down Neumarkt, continue on Rindermarkt for five minutes and turn left onto Marktgasse.

Car: Much of the Old Town is blocked to personal vehicles, including Marktgasse. Public transportation is best to get here; however, if you're a guest with a valid reservation, you can drive up to the hotel to load and unload luggage.

One of my favourite things to do every year during the Christmas season is see a production of The Nutcracker. It never fails to fully put me into the Christmas spirit!

I took my mom to see the National Ballet of Canada's production of The Nutcracker on Wednesday evening at the stunning Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Artsin downtown Toronto. The permanent home to the Canadian Opera Company and National Ballet of Canada opened in 2006. This theatre is one of my favourite places in the world to see productions. The striking large window facade allows the glitz and glamour happening inside the soaring multi-level lobby to be seen from outdoors. Inside, the ceiling soars high with a striking glass staircase snaking its way across the different levels of the theatre. Designed by Diamond Schmitt Architects, it was built specifically for opera and ballet performances with top acoustic sound quality.

The NBC's version of The Nutcracker was created in 1995 by the Ballet's former Artistic Director, James Kudelka. This production places an emphasis on imagination and seeing it through a child's eyes. It is fun, colourful, humorous at times (such as the daily local guest celebrity Cannon Dolls or the bears on skates and pointe shoes), and mesmerizing visually throughout through the skill of the dancers, stunning sets, and beautiful costumes. The orchestra is magnificent, filling the theatre with the familiar score and bringing the show to life even more. This year's show seemed to go back to the Russian roots of the story more than in recent years, which I really enjoyed.

Photo: National Ballet of Canada

Photo: Bruce Zinger

There are some standout moments throughout the show. One of my favourites is the Snow Scene, where you are transported into a sparkling winter wonderland. The set is spectacular, and the glittering costumes sparkle across the stage. The Snow Queen was majestically performed by Principal Dancer, Elena Lobsanova, during the performance I saw, with her two male 'Icicles', who glide across the stage in a beautifully choreographed sequence. Whereas other productions in other cities around the world have performed this scene as a pas de deux between the Snow Queen and Snow King, I enjoyed this version with the Snow Queen commanding both the stage and her Icicles. I found that the corps de ballet performing as the Snow Maidens was a bit chaotic and not as precise in their formations and timings as they could be; however, the overall impact across the stage with the costumes, music, and outstanding performance by Elena was wonderful.

I was also very excited because the night I attended saw Principal Dancer, Heather Ogden, play the role of the Sugarplum Fairy. Watching her dance was a dream as she seemingly floats across the stage with grace, poise, strength, and so much control. Watching her emerge from the large Faberge egg reminded me of the ballerina from a children's musical jewelry box - just magical! The role of the Nutcracker for the evening was played by Principal Dancer, Guillaume Cote, who also happens to be Heather's real-life husband, so watching the pas de deux between the pair on stage made it even more stunning.

Photo: Bruce Zinger

The Waltz of the Flowers is a confectionary delight with colourful pastel costumes floating and twirling around the stage. The one worry I had watching throughout the entire show was the regular 'snow' falling across the stage; beautiful for the audience, hazardous for the dancers. Indeed, one dancer during the Waltz of the Flowers took a tumble but recovered quickly and carried on like a professional.

The Nutcracker is sold out for this season; however, there are a few single tickets available for some performances, as well as a limited number of standing room tickets available for $12 at 11am on the day of the show in person at the Four Seasons Centre Box Office. It runs from December 9 - 30th, 2017. If you aren't able to see it this year, add to your list for next Christmas!

Looking for some inspiration for the travel obsessed, wanderlust suffering globetrotter in your life? Well, speaking as one of those people, I'm sharing both my favourite things and what's on my wish list this year in hopes to inspire some ideas! Nothing listed here is sponsored in any way. Some things I own and others I covet, and they are all purely things that I love, think are great, and happy to recommend to others!

For the Frequent Flier

One of the hottest, and most Instagrammable, suitcases on the block, Away is attracting people for its chic, minimalist style and embedded technology. Away makes what they call 'thoughtful' luggage, developed from hundreds of travel stories. Their suitcases feature unbreakable shells, interior compartments - and, one of the coolest elements - built-in USB chargers! The built-in battery can be easily removed, is TSA approved, and is compliant with all airline policies. You can choose from the popular carry-on luggage style through to large checked baggage sizes in a multitude of colours. While I normally pick sleek black, I just love this perfect pink shade.

Away takes a direct-to-consumer approach. By doing this, the suitcases are made with the same high quality materials as other premium luggage brands but can charge less due to having lower overheads. And, importantly, Away guarantees their quality for life.

On the other end of the luggage spectrum is the beautiful vintage inspired and designed Steamline Luggage. There are a variety of different collection styles and sizes to pick from. One of my favourites is the Sweetheart Collection, a selection of light-coloured cases (white and tan) on the exterior with a beautifully printed lining inside of foliage, flowers and birds, making a beautiful contrast. In the photos below is another collection I love called the Architect in cream. This collection is inspired by Art Deco prints for its interior lining.

While the design may be vintage, the cases are modern in function with features like an extendable trolley handle, buckled leather straps, two TSA-approved locks, and silent-glide wheels. Inside, you will find zippered lid pockets and a detachable door-hangar washbag to keep your belongings organized. SteamLine has also included a new ripstop cover to protect the case. The carry-on size also meets the cabin luggage size requirements for most major airlines.

SteamLine ships all over the world, and also provides a full refund if you are not happy providing the luggage is unused.

I received a Coach passport case monogrammed with my initials a few years ago and it is one of my chicest travel accessories. It's a timeless gift and a lovely little luxury to give someone. If you have the time to have it monogrammed, it ups the luxury factor that much more through personalization. The quality of the leather is fantastic, contains multiple slots to carry various travel documents, frequent flier cards, and other important documents, and is durable.

I have used Lululemon's duffel bags for years - purely for travel! I call it my 'Mary Poppins' bag due to its ability to fit an unbelievable amount of things in it and still look chic while carrying it. This bag is perfect for a city break or weekend away somewhere. I have found these bags to be very durable and last a long time.

This particular bag is water-repellent, contains laptop storage (a padded pocket that fits a 15" laptop), a heat-resistant pocket (helpful for a hair straightener), multiple compartments and pockets, and comes in various colours and patters

Ok, so a travel pillow may not be the most exciting present but bear with me. After trying many different travel pillows over the years, this is now my most trusted one. This pillow is actually comfortable as it is made with high quality memory foam. When I fall asleep on planes, my head tends to bob all over the place so I put this on and it supports my neck properly with 360 degree support. It's easy to pack as it squishes and folds up neatly into its bag, you can tie it to your carry-on bag to save room, and it is washable. It also comes with a two year satisfaction warranty. Forget blow-up, down, or beanbag style travel pillows - this is a travel winner.

Capture Memories

On my wish list for ages has been the Olympus PEN camera. It is beautiful in design with its vintage style, portable so it is easy to carry around, and has high specs and top quality interchangeable lenses so it can produce beautiful images. I've been looking for a terrific camera that is more easily transportable than my DLSR, but produces better quality images than a standard point-and-shoot or smartphone. It's also got built in wi-fi so you can upload and share your images quickly. The other great thing about it that I love are the stylish accessories that you can pick from including leather neck straps, lens covers, body jackets, and bags. There is a more expensive, higher quality version which is the PEN-F, and a lower cost but still high quality version, which is the PEN-E.

Create Experiences

Is there a better gift than being able to jet someone off to Paris for the weekend? The Eurostar is chic and so easy to use - and often has terrific deals, including on Boxing Day. You can buy e-vouchers from Eurostar in either a pre-selected amount or amount of your choosing in GBP, EUR, or USD. I love this idea because it provides something to look forward to and creates a memory.

Wearable Memories

I first discovered Jet Set Candy in December 2015 when I visited a Christmas Market at NYC'S Grand Central Station. I instantly fell in love with the beautiful wanderlust inspired jewelry and charms representing all things travel. Launched in October 2014, Jet Set Candy is one of the first premium lines of travel souvenirs which are modern and wearable keepsakes. Many of the pieces are collectible, such as the fun airport code charms that can be put on a necklace or used as a charm on a bracelet. The line was designed by Nicole Parker King, who wanted to design a thoughtful, stylish, and classic line of travel souvenirs to redefine what is available for travel lovers. The pieces are collectible and made in either sterling silver, 14k vermeil, or solid gold.

In addition to a YYZ charm, I also picked up a silver ring with a plane on it, which was instructed by Nicole's mom to wear facing out on outbound trips and facing in on inbound trips. The packaging is also so thoughtful from the beautifully printed tissue paper with maps, beautiful navy blue suede jewelry pouches, and travel inspired quotes on the inside of the box.

One of my all-time favourite shops, Canadian jewelry and lifestyle shop Bluboho, has grown from a lovely shop in downtown Oakville, Ontario to adding two additional shops in Toronto, Canada (on Queen West and Yonge and Eglinton). Everything about these shops is special from the thoughtfully curated pieces which each have a meaning to the warm and welcoming staff led by Cheryl and Maggie who make you feel like an old friend from the first time you meet. The name 'Bluboho' represents a connection to others, nature and unlimited possibility, with references to sea and sky, and evokes a luxurious, free-spirited lifestyle and lust for life.

Among the treasures you'll find in their beautifully designed shops are pieces symbolizing travel, wanderlust, adventure, and freedom. For example, I love the silver bar bracelets and necklaces with engraved quotes to speak to your present or desired state of mind or feelings. Two of my favourite quotes read 'Not all who wander are lost' and 'Fortune favours the brave'. Or, choose a beautiful feather bracelet or birds in flight necklace to symbolize freedom, flight, and exploring new places.

Bluboho has a stunning Instagram account that will have you wanting to buy everything they post, as well as an online shop. If you're in the Toronto area, pop-in and say hi to Maggie, Cheryl, and the team and see their treasures in person!

Think of this as jewelry for your luggage. For a chic, yet inexpensive, gift, jump onto Pottery Barn's website to order a personalized luggage tag. You can choose from a dark brown or black leather strap which holds a silver plated tag. Monogramming is available for a small extra charge with up to 15 characters per line. This is a fantastic gift for a stylish traveler, a colleague or boss, or someone who frequently travels for business to up the professionalism and luxury factor. I chose to do mine and the ones I have given friends with name initials, such as the one shown in the photo above.

I adore the concept of this jewelry line. Inspired by the line 'Every memory has a place', Coordinates Collection engraves the specific latitudinal and longitudinal coordinates of a place special to you or the recipient of your gift. The pieces are modern, chic, and stylish, and are a unique, deeply personal wearable memory. Is there a memorable holiday that you took? Have they lived abroad? Are they an expat and want to wear a piece of home? The possibilities are endless.

You can choose a selection of bracelets, bangles, cuffs, and necklaces in sterling silver and gold at a range of price points from the very affordable to much more expensive pieces that incorporate precious gems and diamonds. This will be a gift that will delight and touch anyone you give this to.

Inspiring Reads

The 36 Hours In... series by the New York Times is a classic gift to either inspire ideas for new travels and/or help plan an upcoming trip. You can choose larger guides that cover Europe or USA and Canada, or smaller guides focused on a smaller region or country. It makes a terrific coffee table book as it will no doubt inspire conversation about favourite travel memories or dream destinations. I use it as a critical guide in helping inspire places to go for a city break or what to do while I'm there.

Home and Lifestyle Inspiration

I discovered Mapiful through coming across their beautiful Instagram account and fell in love with their products. Mapiful creates printed map posters of not only the big, usual-suspect world cities, but many smaller cities around the world. Even cooler, you can customize your own map through their online tool of your own city or town (or that of the person you are gifting it to) to really personalize this gift. Posters are printed on museum quality paper and shipping is free worldwide. The hardest part will be trying to choose which location(s) you want!

Can you believe that Christmas is only two weeks from today?? Are you still shopping? Need some ideas? Or looking to treat yourself?

Right now, Daniel Wellington is giving you the chance to create beautiful gift sets by choosing any watch plus a cuff or strap of your choice! It will come packaged in a gorgeous gift box nicely displayed so it's beautiful to give as a gift to a friend, family member, or yourself - and you'll enjoy 10% off doing it this way. You can customize your gift set exclusively online.

As an additional Christmas presents, WMW is happy to spread the Christmas cheer by giving you an EXTRA 15% on everything - including on top of the 10% gift set savings (for a total of 25% off!). Just enter the promo code WOMANMEETS at the checkout to get this discount, which is available globally (offer ends December 31, 2017). AND there is free worldwide shipping!

When I first moved to the UK in 2008, I discovered the phenomenon of Christmas Markets. I mean, being able to pop over to a new European country for a long weekend to explore a new city without high season tourist crowds, walk around in the frosty air amongst beautiful Christmas trees, twinkling lights, little market stalls selling all sorts of treasures, the smell of baked goods in the air, and sipping some hot gluhwein (mulled wine) to keep warm and festive - does it get any better? Well, perhaps, when snowflakes begin to fall around you adding to the magical atmosphere! Between exploring the Christmas markets in the city, you can duck into interesting museums, shops, and restaurants to explore and warm up. Since that first year I went in 2008 (to Prague), I have continued the tradition by visiting a new Christmas Market each year.

Paris is magical any time of year you visit, but add some more lights and sparkle at Christmastime and it's almost overwhelming! I'm sharing my Paris Christmas Market trip guide and recommendations below.

Christmas Markets:

La Defense:

This is the largest Christmas Market in Paris with over 350 christmas stalls to explore, shop, and eat. It's in the business area of Paris, so while it isn't right in the centre of the city, it is a pretty quick Metro journey to get there. It is prettiest at dusk and into the evening when the lights switch on over the market and the surrounding buildings.

Open: 23 November - 28 December, 2017; open every day from 11am to 8pm.

Notre Dame is one of Paris's most iconic and beautiful landmarks. There is a lovely Christmas Market in Square Rene Viviani selling a host of French arts, crafts, and gastronomy. There are fewer market stalls here (about 40), but the setting and atmosphere are beautiful - and you can check out the Cathedral while you're there.

Open: 15 - 24 December 2017; open every day from 10am to 8pm.

Metro: Saint-Michel

Saint-Germain-des-Pres

This is one of my favourite areas in Paris. It features a lovely Christmas Market in front of the Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Pres. After exploring the wooden chalets, enjoy a coffee outside at one of the bistro tables of Cafe de Flore or Les Deux Magots to people watch. There is great shopping and other great restaurants in this area too. Try checking out Le Bon Marche or stock up on French beauty products at City Pharma.

Place d'Italie

This small Christmas Market is in the lovely Place d'Italie, and features delicious food to enjoy as well as a selection of Christmas chalets selling festive items.

Open: 28 November - 31 December 2017

Metro: Place d'Italie

Eiffel Tower - Mail Branly

Close to the Eiffel Tower, there is another small market to enjoy shopping at and warming up with some mulled wine. While it's small, it makes up for it by its location - close to the Eiffel Tower (go in the evening to watch is sparkle) and the beautiful Bir Hakeim bridge (a double height bridge, made famous in Last Tango in Paris).

Metro: Alma - Marceau

Montmartre

Montmartre is the Paris often described in books: it has a dreamy Parisian village feel with its fairytale-like shops and homes dotting the hilly landscape and providing some of the most stunning views of the city. This market has about 30 christmas chalets selling mulled wine, French food, and traditional gifts below the Sacre-Coeur.

Metro: Abbesses

Gare Saint-Lazare

This Christmas Market is located at the Saint-Lazare station, and features a variety of pop-up shops selling unique items which are made in France.

Metro: Saint-Lazare

Champs Elysee

This elegant, famous boulevard is a cavalcade of lights and market stalls competing for your attention. There are over 200 wooden chalets stretching from the place de la Concorde to the Champs Elysee roundabout. To be honest, this isn't my favourite area for Christmas Markets in Paris as I found it to be too busy, too commercial, and very few unique things at inflated prices. If you're in the area, check it out, especially in the evening when all of the lights are on along the boulevard creating a beautiful sight. Another idea is to take a ride on the Wheel near sunset for stunning views with beautiful low winter light over the city.

*Note: this Christmas Market has been cancelled by the Paris City Council due to its 'inferior quality food, toys, and trinkets'. It remains to be seen if this decision will be overturned!

Do:

My favourite thing to do in Paris is to explore new areas and walk for hours discovering new shops, restaurants, and cultural and historical sights. Let yourself get lost and see what you can discover! Below are some of my favourite things to do in Paris:

Musee Rodin: This small but beautiful museum is perfect to explore without feeling overwhelmed. Many of the sculptures are in the beautiful gardens so you can walk around and explore outdoors, as well as inside the museum building. It also has a very nice cafe to stop for a small bite to eat or a coffee.

Museum National d'Histoire Paleontology Section at the Jardin de Plantes, is very cool. They have lined up the skeletons of dozens (hundreds?) of animals progressing in size, so if you stand in front of it facing them, they look like they are running towards you! A small, but very cool museum inside a beautiful park.

Louvre: Incredible but overwhelming. If you go, pick a few things in advance you really want to see and target those. This museum is absolutely enormous with thousands of things to see, and will tire you out quickly. Try and also buy a ticket in advance online to beat the crowds and queues. Definitely check out the grounds of the Louvre with its iconic Pyramid dominating the square. Grab a pastry and coffee from Claus and people-watch on one of the benches in the square.

Musee d'Orsay: Another iconic Parisian museum to explore devoted to the arts between 1848 - 1914. Artistic movements featured include Realism, Impressionism, Symbolism, and Art Nouveau. Artists include Bonnard, Carpeaux, Cezanne, Degas, Guimard, Lalique, Manet, Monet, Pissarro, Renoir, Rodin and Van Gogh. There is a lovely cafe on the top floor of the museum to stop and rest your feet. While you're there, check out the large clock window for great views and photo opportunities. There is also a great terrace offering fabulous views over the city near the cafe.

Musee National Picasso-Paris: This museum was recently renovated and features over 5,000 works of Picasso and tens of thousands of archived pieces. This collection, housed in a beautiful building, is the only one in the world that presents Picasso's complete painted, sculpted, engraved, and illustrated works, as well as a record through sketches, studies, drafts, notebooks, etchings, photographs, illustrated books, films and documents of his creative process. This is a fantastic museum to visit and not too overwhelming. It also has a very nice gift shop nearby.

Eiffel Tower: For me, this is a must-visit every time I visit Paris. Yes, it's touristy but there's just something about it that draws me in, whether early in the morning when that magical Parisian daylight is rising, or in the evenings when the Tower sparkles and shimmers. My suggestion is to go to Trocadero first to admire it and take some fab photos, then walk down the steps and across the bridge so that you're at its base. under it. It sparkles on the hour every hour at dark (usually from 6pm) for about 5 minutes. There is a lovely park stretching out from the Tower as well, which is perfect for a picnic. Click here for more of my Eiffel Tower suggestions.

Institut du Monde Arabe: This stunning building opened in 2012. The Institut features exhibitions and objects that show the diversity of the Arab world and Arab-Islamic civilization throughout history. More than 560 unique works are displayed across four levels including bronzes, ceramics, woodwork, textiles, scientific objects, and illuminations. One of the most beautiful and fascinating elements of the building are it's windows, which features 240 photo-sensitive motor controlled apertures / shutters, which automatically open and close to control the amount of light and heat come into the building from the sun. This mechanism creates interior spaces with filtered light, which is an effect often used with climate-oriented strategies. I love going to the top of the building to enjoy the beautiful views over Paris from its rooftop terrace, and stopping at the rooftop cafe for a glass of champagne and delicious baklava.

Musee de l'Orangerie: This beautiful museum is located in the Jardin des Tuileries. With many beautiful works of art to admire, the jewel in its crown is the spectacular room featuring Claude Monet's 'Waterlilies'. Worth the visit even if you just go to see this famous work of art!

Notre-Dame Paris: This Parisian landmark is an iconic medieval Catholic cathedral located on the Ile de la Cite on the Seine. The cathedral is one of the largest and most famous religious buildings in the world, and considered to be one of the best examples of French Gothic architecture. You can climb up inside and enjoy stunning view of the city, as well as stroll the perfectly manicured gardens surrounding the Cathedral.

Sacre-Coeur: The Basilica of the Sacré Cœur dominates the hill of Montmatre. It is a Roman Catholic church at the highest point in the city, providing visitors with incredible views over Paris. It is actually also a double monument as both a national penance for the defeat of France in the 1870 Franco-Prussian War and the social Paris Commune of 1871, which crowned its most rebellious neighbourhood, and an embodiment of conservative moral order. located at the summit of the hill of Montmartre, on the right bank of the Seine. Its dominating appearance on the hill in white with rounded towers make it seem almost fairytale-like. There are public 'steps' located out front that you can sit and enjoy the fantastic view and street performers. Annoyingly, there are some aggressive people selling cheap, knock-off items and trying to rip tourists off. Ignore them. Also ignore the tables selling lottery and games towards the bottom by being firm and confident.

Palace of Versailles: It probably requires at least a half a day but is well worth a visit. The Palace of Versailles has been a World Heritage Site for 30 years. Once Louis XIII's old hunting pavilion was transformed by his son, Louis XIV, when he installed the Court and Government here in 1682. A succession of Kings continued to expand the Palace until the French Revolution in 1789 forced Louis XVI to leave Versailles for Paris. The Palace became the Museum of the History of France in 1837 with the rooms devoted to housing new collections of paintings and sculptures representing important figures and events that had marked the history of France. Today, the Palace has 2,300 rooms! The palace has extensive, beautifully landscaped gardens which spread over 800 hectares. One of the most spectacular rooms is the Hall of Mirrors, which was built to replace a large terrace which opened onto the garden. If you're a fan of Marie Antoinette, you'll enjoy seeing the chambers where she lived and slept!

Palais Royal: Located close to the Louvre, this beautiful spot is popular for people to come for a walk around the beautiful gardens, strike a pose against the chic black and white columns, check out the contemporary fountains in the courtyard, or grab a coffee from the popular Cafe Kitsune. The Palais Royal was originally built for Cardinal Richelieu. The main part of the palace became a royal residence from 1661. It was completed and modified in the 18th and 19th centuries. During the 19th century, it became a place of promiscuity, which was immortalized by Balzac.

Gardens: Paris is known for its stunning gardens. Some of my favourites to explore are the Jardin du Luxembourg, Jardin des Plantes, and Jardin des Tuileries.

Pere Lechaise cemetery: Located in the 20th, it is really fascinating and worth a visit (it isn't creepy). This is one of Paris's most famous and frequently visited cemeteries due to its extensive size (44 hectares and 70,000 burial plots), its landscaping (modeled after an English park), architecture and shrines including Gothic graves, Haussmanian burial chambers, and ancient mausoleums, and the numerous famous people who have been laid to rest here. Famous residents including Oscar Wilde, Edith Piaf, Camille Pissarro, Jim Morrison, Colette, Frederic Chopin, and Moliere, just to name a few.

Fondation Louis Vuitton: Designed by renowned architect, Frank Gehry, the Fondation is an art museum and cultural centre which opened in 2014. The building itself is worth seeing, which is located in the Bois de Boulogne (near the Jardin d'Acclimatation). There are panoramic views throughout the building, due to its extensive and creative use of glass. It features a permanent art collection as well as special exhibits, and has a lovely cafe on the ground floor.

Place des Vosges: One of Paris's oldest and most beautiful squares! Explore the arches housing shops, restaurants, and galleries which surround the main square and central garden. On the edge of the Marais, it is a perfect place to enjoy a picnic if it is nice outside.

Arc de Triomphe: At the 'top' of the Champs Elysee and at the Place de l'Etoile, you can climb this famous arch and have beautiful views from the top across the entire city.

Palais de Tokyo: This gallery is dedicated to modern and contemporary art, near the Trocadero. It also has a terrace with incredible views out to the Eiffel Tower that can be accessed for free.

Shop

Le Bon Marche: I visit this beautiful store every time I'm in Paris. It's chic, filled with all kinds of fabulous brands (especially the beauty and women's contemporary sections) and items, and a seriously Instagrammable main hall with art deco escalators criss-crossing each other. They often feature creative art installations, so worth checking out to see what's on display.

Galeries Lafayette: go here to check out the incredible main hall which always features a breathtaking Christmas tree! Some nice shopping for contemporary fashion and beauty, but I usually prefer Le Bon Marche.

Printemps Hausmann: The showstopper here is their fantastic rooftop cafe for stunning views over Paris. Enter through the beauty counter entrance of the building and head to the rooftop via this route. The view is free, and it's lovely to sit with a coffee or glass of wine at the rooftop cafe, especially at sunset.

Colette: Located on the swish Rue St Honore, this is a fashion favourite. They always have cool features happening in-store as well as carefully curated, unique items and brands to check out.

City Pharma: If you're as obsessed with beauty and skin products as me, you have to visit City Pharma in St Germain. This beauty cult favourite has all the best French products, like Caudalie, Avene, La Roche Posay etc etc, and all at inexpensive prices. Be warned though - it gets insanely busy so I suggest going early on a weekday morning or later in the evening on a weekday if you can. Stand your ground and ideally go with a list of things you want with you to stay focused.

Merci: In the Haut-Marais is this fabulous fashion and home store. You'll probably know it by seeing the iconic Mini Cooper in the courtyard and its cool Used Book Cafe. Merci acts as a launching pad for young designers to make themselves known to French and international shoppers.

Shakespeare and Co: This brilliant and famous independent bookshop sells a wide selection of English language books on the left bank. It was the first bookshop to publish James Joyce's Ulysses in full. It regularly hosts events, including hosting some of the most famous literary figures in history such as Ernest Hemingway, F Scott Fitzgerald, Jack Kerouac, and Allen Ginsberg. The shop was forced to close in 1941 when Nazis occupied Paris. It also has a little cafe attached to it next door. It is definitely worth checking out!

Eat

There are too many wonderful places to eat in Paris to possibly list them all, so I'll dive in by sharing some of my current favourites:

Fish La Boissonnerie: Located in Saint-Germain-des-Pres, this restaurant has a regularly changing menu featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients and dishes. Their wine selection is also terrific. I have never had a bad meal here. Make a reservation for this small restaurant to secure your chance of having dinner here, or slide up to eat at the bar to enjoy and chat with the people around you. A must visit on any trip to Paris I make!

Semilla: This restaurant is by the same owners of Fish La Boissonnerie and is also a wonderful, slightly more upscale restaurant just across the road. Semilla features very tasty dishes with fresh, seasonal ingredients on its regularly changing menu.

Le Mary Celeste: This is easily one of the coolest places in Paris. This tiny restaurant and bar is located in the Marais and features creative, delicious dishes on a regularly updated menu. This place is buzzing with people so reservations are recommended. It's a great place to go with friends to share a variety of dishes, or try some of their amazing cocktails (some of the best I've ever tried anywhere!).

L'Éclair de Genie: The best eclairs anywhere, hands down. The incredible eclairs by master pastry chef Christophe Adam literally brought tears to my eyes when I first tried them - they are THAT good! There are a few locations in Paris now, but my favourite is the one in the Marais. If the Salted Caramel eclair is available, definitely make that your first one!

Rose Bakery: This is a great place for brunch, particularly at their Marais location, or take a shopping break and have a coffee and their famous carrot cake if you're at their Le Bon Marche location. Don't go too late in the day though or you'll miss the carrot cake and some of the other in-demand cakes!

Bistrot Paul Bert: Classic French food in a beautiful bistro style restaurant. The food was incredible and the desserts were out of this world. We ordered a cheese board, which arrived at our table on a giant cutting board - with full size blocks of cheese and a knife to cut the amount you wanted! One of my friends ordered the baba au rhum (Rum Baba cake), which came with an entire bottle of rum to top up at your pleasure! I had their Paris Brest, which was to die for.

Grande Mosquee de Paris: Enjoy a fabulous mint tea and baklava in the lovely courtyard and gardens, and explore one of the biggest mosques in France.

Printemps Haussmann: If you're looking for a great quick lunch or snack, the gourmet food hall at Printemps is incredible! This is a food hall Parisian style - think champagne and oyster bars, fancy tapas, gorgeous pastries, and more. The last time I was there, I enjoyed some sparkling wine and tapas. Lovely!

Mama Shelter: Not just a fabulous place to stay, it is also a great place for cocktails at night and where cool Parisians hang out.

Mariage Freres: This French tea company is my favourite brand of tea (particularly Vanille des Iles and French Breakfast). They have a few locations around Paris, and some of them do a wonderful afternoon tea.

Ralph's Paris: This lovely little cafe by Ralph Lauren is in Saint-Germain-des-Pres inside a beautiful courtyard. It is a nice experience if you want something a bit lux.

Claus: A lovely brunch and coffee spot in the Marais, close to the Louvre. It's always busy so I've usually just grabbed some of their lovely to-go pastries and a coffee and eaten them on one of the benches outside of the Louvre while people-watching.

Au Petit Versailles: One of the best bakeries in Paris in the Marais. It's tiny but wonderful, and regularly wins awards for their bread. Their croissants are wonderful for breakfast, and don't forget to try their Paris Brest (located at 1 Rue Tiron)!

Daroco Paris: Daroco is in the building of what used to be Jean-Paul Gaultier's first store, and leaves much of the original footprint in place. New, chic additions have been added, such as an open kitchen, opulent velour banquet booths, and mirrored ceilings. The pizzas here are out-of-this-world delicious! Make a booking as this restaurant is proving to be one of Paris's most popular.

Stay

Mama Shelter: Located in the 20th arrondisement, this Philippe Starck designed hotel is one of Paris's coolest places to stay. While it isn't in the centre of Paris, it is easy to get around to due its proximity to the Metro. It is one of the most diverse, interesting areas of Paris, as well as being close to the Pere Lachaise cemetery. there are 172 rooms which are equipped with 5 star bedding and fun interiors. The restaurants are all delicious, from simple, homemade cuisine. You can check the huge island bar, pizzeria, or terrace. There is also a lovely rooftop to enjoy during warm days for a drink or meal.

Grand Hotel du Palais Royal: I absolutely adore this beautiful small luxury boutique hotel in the heart of the Palais Royal. Incredibly friendly staff are there to help you have a comfortable staff, the rooms are impeccably decorated, and the location can't be beat. Check out a more detailed review of this hotel when I had the opportunity to stay there here.

Le Meridien Etoile: This hotel is located very close to the Champs Elysee near the Arc du Triomphe end. It has small and stylish rooms, and is well located to travel around the city with a Metro station very close by. Check out more details and full details on my stay here.

Airbnb

Staying at an Airbnb is a wonderful option, particularly if you are staying in Paris for longer than a weekend, and/or want to feel like / pretend you live in the city. Below are two Airbnbs that I have stayed in that I really enjoyed!

Paris has a great Metro system. Buy a set of 'carnets' (tickets) so you can pass through the stations easily without having to buy a new ticket each time. While you're in the stations or on the Metro though, be sure to watch your pockets and belongings very carefully, particularly when it is busy, as there are very skillful pickpockets that work the system.

Walking around Paris is one of the most wonderful things. Overall, Paris is a pretty small city. I suggest picking a neighbourhood and just start to wander. Literally, just pick a neighbourhood and wander. My favourites are St Germain, Marais, the Latin Quarter and Montmatre.

If you can take the Eurostar to Paris, I highly recommend it! It is such an easy, quick, and chic way to travel. From London, it takes just over two hours from St Pancras International Station to the centre of Paris at the Gare du Nord station.

Have you been to the Design Museum in its new home in Kensington? It's now housed in an incredible new building where the architecture is just as interesting to admire as the exhibits! This museum is focused on design in multiple forms including graphics, products, fashion, architecture, and industrial design. It is considered to be one of the world's leading museums dedicated to contemporary design in multiple forms.

The new Design Museum has much more space, and can host more talks and events in its new 200 seat auditorium. It also features its first permanent exhibit called 'Designer Maker User'. This fascinating exhibit takes you through nearly a century of modern design through these three roles, featuring nearly 1,000 pieces of twentieth and twenty-first century design from fashion, graphics/art, architecture, engineering, and technology/digital. The museum also hosts a series of temporary exhibits, so check their website and Instagram account to stay up to date with the latest happenings.

The Design Museum is open daily between 10:00 - 18:00. It is also open late on the first Friday of each month until 20:00. It is free to check out the permanent exhibits, but expect a charge for tickets for temporary exhibits. I can also recommend the fantastic gift shop as well as they are filled with all kinds of chic and modern items (and great if looking for a unique gift)!

Nestled at the top of one of Rome's highest hills, Monte Mario, in a 15 acre private Mediterranean park overlooking the city sits the stunning Rome Cavalieri, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel. The road to and from the hotel, which is located in a prestigious residential area of Rome, is almost fascinating as it forms part of one of history's most important paths - the Via Francigena. This was the route for thousands of pilgrims from Canterbury, England, through to France, and onwards to Rome over the centuries. Armies marched along this route, travelers would rest on this hill, and merchants would sell their wares. The hotel's name is a tribute to these travelers who faced danger and exhaustion to come to Rome., as Cavalieri means 'Rider' or 'Knight', reminding today's travelers of this incredible history.

After a beautiful, winding drive up Monte Mario, you arrive at the main entrance of the hotel and are greeted by friendly doormen. The main lobby is breathtaking with its dramatic gold light installation, priceless works of art, and expansive space leading out to a terrace overlooking over Rome. Right away, you know right away that you have arrived somewhere special. Checking in is smooth with friendly, professional, and welcoming reception staff who explain the hotel and its amenities, sending your bags to your room ahead of your arrival.

The hotel opened its doors in 1963 at the height of the 'Dolce Vita' in Rome, a time of significant economic development and and considered to be 'Hollywood on the Tiber' due to its appeal for American film studios and movie stars. Still today, the Rome Cavalieri is a top choice for stars and global jet setters, welcoming everyone from Fred Astaire through to royalty and heads of state. For fans of the film Eat, Pray, Love, this is where Julia Roberts stayed during filming!

The hotel was designed by one of the most important architects of this period as well: Ugo Luccichenti with contributions from Franco Albini and Pierluigi Nervi. The Rome Cavalieri is approximately 3 km from Vatican City and 5 km from the historic city centre. Although the location isn't right in the heart of Rome's centre, it is easily reached by the complimentary shuttle bus or a quick and inexpensive taxi. It was actually quite nice to not stay in the busy centre of the city as it turned into the perfect combination of a city break and relaxed getaway in the Rome Cavalieri's oasis. In addition to all of the main amenities, features, and services that are described in more detail below, there are also boutiques in the hotel for shopping, a bank, ATM, and travel agency inside the hotel. In addition to babysitting services, the hotel is also pet friendly with accompanying pet sitting services!

One of the most incredible parts of the Rome Cavalieri is that it is not just a hotel, but a living art gallery. With over 1,000 pieces in its collection, it owns a museum-worthy collection of paintings from some of the most famous artists in history, French period furniture, exquisite and rare tapestries, sculptures, and other historical artefacts. For instance, two paintings by Niccolo Bambini are on permanent display in the main lobby to admire, and four paintings by one of Venice's greatest painters from the 18th century, Giuseppe Zais, can be found above the Concierge and Reception desks. His paintings can be found in museums around the world, including in London's National Gallery, and in Berlin, Madrid, and Venice, giving a sense of the significance of the paintings owned by the hotel. Other significant painters with works owned by the Cavalieri include Giambattista Tiepolo,Frans Snyders, Alessandro Magnasco, and Andy Warhol's 'Dollar Signs' painting, which is on display in one of the penthouse suites.

Bronze and marble sculptures can be seen in the hotel's public areas, including three rare 17th century Sicilian 'bas reliefs' of multi-chrome marble which are incorporated into the infinity glass structure of the Lobby, Reception, and Concierge desks. Also on display is a piece by Antonio Tantardini called 'The Kiss' (created in Milan in 1861), a piece by Bertel Thorvaldsen called 'The Shepherd Boy and His Dog', and a piece by Cesare Zocchi, a 19th century Florentine sculptor, which represents Minos, the King of Crete and Guardian of Hell.

You won't be able to miss the large tapestries on display in the main lobby, including a rare 1725 Beauvais Tapestry entitled 'L'Histoire du Roi de la Chine'. The hotel owns more than 20 rare tapestries ranging from Flemish 16th century to masterpieces from the Royal Works of Aubusson and Gobelins, which are on display around the hotel.

The Cavalieri's suites and public areas are also accentuated with exceptional French (Louis XV and First Empire) furniture, whose history can be traced to royal palaces and history, including the cradle of Napoleon's son, the 'King of Rome', and a richly decorated baroque commode from the the 18th century, once belonging to the King of Poland. The collection also includes cabinets, commodes, gueridons, consoles, clocks, appliques, and more. Suites are also decorated with unique pieces of artwork and furnishings, including original Karl Lagerfeld sofas, rare 18th century antiques, and Andy Warhol and Robert Indiana paintings.

Travel tip: even if you aren't staying at the hotel, a tour of the art collection can be arranged with the hotel's concierge, in addition to an app available to self-guide you through the collection!

Eat:

Coming to Rome to indulge in its culinary delights is one of the main reasons to visit, right?? The Rome Cavalieri has no shortage of delicious restaurant and dining options, with the jewel in its crown being La Pergola, the only hotel restaurant in Italy to hold a coveted three Michelin Stars.

Let's start with breakfast as it's the most important meal of the day, of course. Breakfast is served at the L'Uliveto restaurant, which is on the lower ground level of the hotel in a large room and as well as one of the terraces so you can enjoy your meal outdoors overlooking the pool and manicured gardens in warmer weather. What waits for you is a veritable feast so be sure to come hungry. My advice is to do a survey of the expansive offerings first so you know what's on offer to avoid risking being overwhelmed with choice and a lack of plate space! You can find anything on offer for breakfast from classic North American options of eggs, bacon, sausages, french toast, hash browns, pastries, and pancakes; European continental breakfast options of meats, cheeses, and pastries (including the incredible mini donuts!); and, global fare including Italian meatballs and Chinese dumplings! You can enjoy L'Uliveto for dinner as well, which serves a full menu of Mediterranean and international dishes.

Fancy a coffee or afternoon tea? Check out the Tiepolo Lounge and Terrace on the main floor, named after the famous painter whose works you can admire while sipping your cappuccino: 'Ulysses Discovers Achilles Among the Daughters of Lycomedes', 'The Flaying of Marsyas', and 'Hercules and Anteus'. You can enjoy the lounge indoors, or take in the beautiful view and surroundings on the adjacent outdoor terrace. You can also enjoy a light lunch, snacks, or drinks here, as well as take into nightly live entertainment. Enjoy the new afternoon tea called 'Tea with Tiepolo', served daily between 4 to 6:30pm. This tea includes a selection of rare and delicate speciality teas served in bone china, Berlucchi Spumante rose served in vermeil flutes, and delicacies such as quail eggs with caviar and black truffle.

If you're visiting during the summer months when the Roman sun is scorching hot, enjoy a dip in the beautiful large outdoor pool, one of the few pools in Rome! While relaxing poolside, you can order from the Pool Bar by either walking over to the bar to order or buzzing the convenient digital coaster at the table next to your lounger for service. You can choose from a selection of drinks, refreshments, light snacks, and homemade ice cream. While certainly convenient, the service was often very slow, even after asking for someone to take our order several times on different days we were there, and the menu is expensive. At the Chalet Grill, enjoy seasonal alfresco food, which serves hot and cold dishes while screening live sporting events.

If you're enjoying the services of the Grand Spa Cafe, you can choose from a selection of healthy drinks, including freshly squeezed juices, smoothies, herbal teas, and fitness beverages, or light snacks including salads and fresh fruit.

Saving the best for last is La Pergola Restaurant and Bar, which is located at the top of the Rome Cavalieri with its expansive roof terrace with spectacular panoramic views over Rome. The three Michelin-starred restaurant (since November 2005) is under the direction of renowned chef, Heinz Beck. Not only is it the only hotel in Italy to have this accolade, it was Italy's first five-star hotel restaurant to receive the award. You can dine on your award-winning meal under a frescoed ceiling, fine furniture, and 18th and 19th century works of art. During warm summer evenings, you can dine by candlelight under the stars. Opulent table settings enhance your experience, including gold-plated silverware, as well as unique touches such as vintage balsamic vinegars, salts and peppers from around the world, and rare teas and coffees. The restaurant's double-tiered wine cellar is also to be admired, as it holds approximately 53,000 bottles and is the winner of multiple awards, including the Wine Spectator's Grand Award in 2005 and 2008. The 2,500 label wine list features some of the world's rarest Italian and international wines, including 19th century and legendary cult wines.

There is no shortage of activities to keep fit, relax, and have fun at the hotel. The Cavalieri's Grand Spa Club is considered to be one of Italy's most luxurious spa and fitness facilities, with over 2,500 square metres of wellness, treatment, and relaxation space. There are 10 treatment rooms to enjoy a wide variety of spa services, including La Prairie facials. Unwind with a massage or body treatment, then enjoy one of the two saunas (or both!), whirlpool, or the amethyst Turkish bath.

Stay on track with your exercise regime at the state-of-the-art fitness centre which features a full programme of classes as well as high-tech equipment. Play a game of tennis on one of two Davis Cup red clay tennis courts, or take a walk on the 800m fitness trail within the hotel's expansive grounds.

Take a dip in the three outdoor swimming pools, which includes the main large outdoor pool and children's pool, or the glass-domed indoor pool with its cascading waterfall, hydromassage pool, and Japanese stone walk.

Sleep

The Rome Cavalieri has 345 spacious deluxe rooms, each with a large private balcony. In addition, there are 25 luxurious suites in a range of sizes, each individually decorated with valuable antique furniture and artwork.

My hotel room was nothing short of spectacular from the moment I walked through the door. Decorated in sunny, plush yellow and gold furnishings, it was luxurious and comforting. Cushy armchairs around a coffee table make a great sitting area, and a lovely workspace / desk if you need to work while staying at the hotel. As I was staying on the Imperial Floor, my suite had a private terrace that opened out to a breathtaking view over Rome. As I had arrived late in the evening, I quickly changed into one of the cozy white robes and a pair of slippers, and sipped a glass of sparkling wine on the terrace, watching the lights twinkle across the city in the warm summer night air - pure bliss!

Those who follow me will know that I have a big thing for the toiletries provided by hotels, as I truly think that offering quality toiletries is an indicator of taste, quality, and luxury. So, you can imagine how pleased I was to walk into the spacious marble bathroom to find Salvatore Ferragamo 'Tuscan Sun' products to enjoy! Going beyond the classic shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and moisturizer, the products included sheet masks (amazing!) and face mists (in a perfect size to pop into your purse to refresh in the summer heat). I was thoroughly impressed.

The plush white bed linens were silky soft, enveloping you as you relax and drift off to sleep. The hotel offers a pillow menu to suit every taste for a good night's sleep, and the mattress itself was dreamy to sleep on.

If you are staying in an Imperial Room suite, you have access to the newly renovated Imperial Club, which offers private VIP check in / out, complimentary breakfast, finger foods, afternoon tea, early evening hors d'oeuvres, and after-dinner drinks. My favourite thing was enjoying the delicious strawberry tarts and glass of sparkling wine on the terrace with an incredible view!

Located on the top floor with spectacular views of the city, this is the largest suite in the hotel. It features an ornate bedroom, marble bathroom, kitchen, wine cellar, and dining room for up to eight guests. There is a living space adorned with antique furniture, wood parquet, and rare 17th century paintings depicting Santa Caterina and Santa Cecilia, as well as mosaic tables and a sofa designed by Karl Lagerfeld. The Valcucine kitchen from the 'Artematica' line is fully equipped to cater for a private dinner or allow guests to feel at home by having the facilities to cook for themselves. Throughout the suite, a subtle yet high quality tech system is built in, allowing guests to control audio, visual, and lighting at the simple touch of a button.

The suite is also adaptable to comprise three additional Imperial Rooms with an adjacent Vista Suite to create an apartment with the benefits of the hotel's facilities, including the Imperial Club.

Service, and the services, offered by a hotel is often the game changer in giving it the edge from competitors. The Rome Cavalieri has outdone itself with an incredible list of experiences and services to enjoy. For example:

The Atelier: a private lounge which gives guests a place to plan, discuss and organize special occasions. Exclusive, world-class wedding and other event planning services and professional staff help guests with every last detail.

The Italian Super Car Experience: guests can have the chance to drive an Italian car of their dreams in this experience day. In collaboration with Red Travel, the hotel offers guests the chance to experience a four-hour driving tour on the iconic Mille Miglia route. You will drive through hilltop villages along the winding roads of the route that made the Gran Turismo sports car famous! Choose from a Ferrari F430 Spider, a Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 E-Gear, or a Maserati Gran Turismo - talk about making memories! This experience is priced from €850 per person.

Experience Life as Roman Gladiator: in the private park of the hotel, guests can learn ancient combat techniques of Rome's Gladiators and have the chance to experience life as a real Gladiator! The Scuola Gladiatori Roma mixes sport with culture, and teaches students how gladiators fought with traditional weapons such as the 'Gladius', the typical gladiator sword, and the 'Trident' a three-pronged spear. Lessons are open to adults and children over seven years of age, and take place on a request basis.

Cinematic tour, 'The Grand Beauty': this tour is inspired by Paolo Sorrentino's 2014 Oscar and BAFTA winning movie, 'La Grande Bellezza'. You will explore the picturesque Roman areas featured in the film as well as a few hidden locations with the hotel's experienced and resident Art Historian, Alexandra Massini. The full day tour includes a private tour of Rome's iconic sights, including the Colosseum, Palazzo Spada, Piazza Farnese, the Baths of Caracalla, Palazzo Sacchetti, and Villa Medici. There are also shorter options available if you can't devote an entire day. Prices vary depending on the length of the tour you choose and the dining options you select. For example, the price for a family of five starts from €1,345, excluding aperitif and lunch; €1,745 including aperitif with snacks on the terrace of Palazzo Taverna; and upwards.

Million Dollar Wedding - The Ultimate Wedding: if money is no object, take the hotel up on this incredible wedding experience for up to 100 lucky guests. Guests will fly to Rome on a private jet and arrive at the hotel in a chauffeur driven vintage car. The bride and groom will check-in to the penthouse suite (featuring four original Andy Warhols and a large panoramic roof terrace with private whirlpool). The king size bed will be made up with the couple's choice of monogrammed Italian Pratesi Paradise linen, which the hotel will ship home. All wedding guests will receive handwritten invitations on personalized hand-crafted paper from the Amalfi Coast. Guests can be accommodated in 50 executive floor rooms and suites, and will enjoy private butler service. Wedding pictures will be set against famous landmarks such as the Trevi Fountain, Colosseum, and Spanish Steps. Guests can also indulge in spa pampering and professional hair and makeup services in the Grand Spa. The hotel provides a personal wedding planner to oversee all details of the event, both on and off the property. Arrival at the church or synagogue can be by horse-drawn carriage, complete with outriders, or vintage car. The couple can also choose to have their wedding bands custom designed by Italian jeweler, Fabio Salini. A chic cocktail reception on the roof garden overlooking the city will be arranged, followed by an elaborate seven course menu and wedding cake by Heinz Beck, along with Dom Perignon and caviar. Tables will be dressed with Pratesi table linens with 24 carat gold lace and luxury centrepieces. To top it all off (if all of that wasn't enough), the finale is a fireworks display and balloon release from the terrace!

Something Borrowed for Brides: as part of the bridal tradition of wearing something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue, this program features Italian Princesses (Lucia Odescalchi and Grazia Borghese) lending their custom designed jewelry collection to brides who get married at the Cavalieri.

Kid's Club: for travelers with children, the hotel offers a Kid's Club (the League of Young Cavaliers) to engage them in fun activities and experiences. It gives children the opportunity to experience art, sports, cooking, and more, while mixing fun with quality learning.

If you're lucky enough to be at the hotel attending an event, the hotel has the largest and most modern congress centre facilities of any European five-star deluxe hotel. With over 8700 square metres of meeting and conference space, as well as a grand ballroom (the Salone dei Cavalieri) capable of hosting 2100 guests, there is more than enough space and choice for events, supported by dedicated event managers and state-of-the-art technology - a must in today's busy and highly connected world.

Hotel prizes and awards:

The hotel is the recipient of many awards over the years, including the following most recent ones:

2016 and 2015 World Travel Awards: World's Leading Luxury City Resort, Europe's Leading Luxury City resort, and Italy's leading Luxury City resort.

2016 Six Star Diamond Award by the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences

Trip Advisor 'Certificate of Excellence' since 2010.

2014 - 2013-2012: World Travel Awards 'Italy's Leading Business Hotel'

2013: Awarded one of the Best European Hotels by European Finest Hotels Organisation

Getting There:

Getting to the Rome Cavalieri is pretty easy. The Leonardo da Vinci - Fiumicino Airport is 35 km away, and the Pastine-Ciampino Airport is 44km away. From the airports, you can take a taxi directly to the hotel, which is probably the easiest and quickest option as the hotel isn't directly in the city centre, or arrange a private limo transfer through the hotel to pick you up. Alternatively, you can take a train into the city centre and take the hotel's complimentary shuttle from the Piazza Barberini.

Imagine zipping around Rome a la Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday on the back of a shiny red Vespa. Is there anything more glamorous or exciting??

Rome is one of my favourite cities in the entire world. The history, the energy, the lifestyle, the food, the shopping, the light.... I could go on and on. The city is, quite simply, magical. To experience it in a truly Roman way, I discovered Scooteroma Tours a few years ago when I was visiting Rome. I knew right away that it was the perfect way to jet around the city in the crazy summer heat in the most chic way possible.

On my most recent trip there last month, I knew I wanted to do it again as it was one of my favourite travel memories. There is nothing cooler than Annie pulling up with her shiny red Vespa for you to hop on the back and scooter around Rome. Annie is a blast and you'll have a great time right from the start! Forget larger organized tour groups - this is the way to go. You'll get to see the coolest parts of Rome from her most famous ancient sights to quiet, hidden gems, and some of the most beautiful viewpoints of the city from Rome's surrounding hills. Along the way, you'll stop for some fantastic espresso or iced coffee, and some delicious organic gelato - it is Rome, after all!

There are a few different tours to pick from, and you can also tailor it. Decide from four tours, including: Classic Vespa Tour; Foodie Vespa Tour; Street Art Vespa Tour; and, Cinema Vespa Tour. We picked the Classic Tour, which Annie tailored to show me some things I hadn't seen during my first trip. Enjoy seeing things like the ancient Appian Way, ancient Gates to the city, ancient aqueducts, zoom past the curved road surrounding the Colosseum (enjoying both the front and back views), the jaw-dropping views from Palatine Hill and Janiculum Hill, the buzzy roads around Monti (one of Rome's coolest neighbourhoods), the stunning leafy neighbourhood of Trastevere (my personal favourite area of Rome), and lesser known but incredible sights such as Santa Sabina (one of Rome's oldest churches dating back to 422 AD!) - and more!

Annie and her team are excellent drivers and take safety seriously, so you don't need to worry - you're in good hands! It may seem a bit pricey, but it is honestly worth it. You'll spend about four hours together on a private tour of the city seeing more than you could possibly accomplish on your own. I would also recommend going with Scooteroma over other Vespa tours which tend to be more focused on either renting the scooters out or have larger tour groups so you have less interaction and less personalization.

Scooteroma has a fab Instagram account to follow along with (@scooteromatours). From doing this tour twice, and wanting to do it again the next time I go, you'll always remember riding that iconic Vespa through Rome with the wind on your face and pretending to be Audrey Hepburn or a real Roman (even if just for a few hours)!

Have you ever wanted to see a magical carpet ride? Glittering costumes? A genie come to life? Sets that take you away to another world? Music to fill you with song?

If so, then you've got to get yourself a ticket to see Aladdin The Musical in the West End. Having wanted to see it for ages, I recently had the opportunity to see it on stage at London's Prince Edward Theatre. This is a stunning, dazzling show that is guaranteed to put you in a great mood!

It is clear that a lot of care was put into bringing Disney's much-loved film to life - a tricky task, especially for passionate fans who will undoubtedly be making comparisons back to the film. Fans familiar with the film will notice some differences. For instance, Abu (Aladdin's monkey and best friend) and Rajah (Jasmine's best friend and devoted tiger) don't appear in the musical, but are substituted with male and female entourages for Aladdin and Jasmine, respectively. There are also a few new songs that have been composed especially for the musical which are fun, though not as catchy as the original score.

There are some standout performances during the show. The Genie is played by Trevor Dion Nicholas, a brilliant, larger than life performer who steals the show. Sharp and witty with a terrific voice and comedic timing, he really brings the show to life. The scene where the Genie explains to Aladdin (played by Matthew Croke) all the amazing things he could wish for while inside the cave is a spectacular, fun-filled confectionary moment with a set completely decked out in glittering gold, and accompanied by elaborate costumes, lights, fantastic choreography., and a bit (or a lot) of magic. There were a few children sitting near me in the audience. Seeing the awe and wonder on their faces was simply magical during this scene.

Another favourite is the scene where the Genie turns Aladdin into a sultan for his first wish and takes the parade and spectacle to Jasmine's palace. The sparkling costumes, choreography, music, and sets for this scene are again spectacular!

One of the most magical parts of the show though is the magic carpet ride taken by Jasmine and Aladdin. The entire theatre goes dark, transforming into a starry night sky where the magic carpet soars across the stage. It's enough to take your breath away! Jasmine is played by Jade Ewen, formerly of the band, Sugababes, and the UK's representative in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2009. Her vocals are stunning and she brings some wonderful star power to the show.

Although the show might not feel as professional as some of the more established West End musicals, it is a fun-filled, family friendly show that will lift your spirits - and isn't that what is most important in today's age filled with negative daily news? As you leave the theatre, it'll be hard to stop singing and dancing on your way to the tube to go home!

London is home to some of the world's best shopping. Here, you can find everything from flagship big brands to the quirkiest independent shops selling things you didn't even know you needed.

My advice is to focus on the shops that are unique to the city (or country). Don't bother with chain stores that you can find at home; save your time and money on seeing new and unique things. Also, for British chain stores that you may not find at home, avoid the congested areas of places like Oxford Street, and head to areas of the city where you'll find the same shop in a less crowded area and discover somewhere new.

In London, there are some incredible shops - here, I'm sharing three of my favourites that are must-visits when in the city.

Liberty is a must-see and must-experience for so many reasons. You've probably seen its flower shop display at its front entrance all over social media as it is an Instagrammers' dream! Liberty's building just off Regent and Oxford Streets is in a beautiful Tudor building that is worth seeing on its own. Its window displays, especially for Christmas, are stunning. The interior of this historical building is beautiful, set over several floors.

Go for:

The famous Liberty prints (available in fabric rolls, scarves, bags, and more)

Selfridges is one of the main (and only) reasons to trek to Oxford Street. This iconic building takes up a massive block filled with all kinds of treasures. Try and go earlier or later in the day to explore without big crowds making the experience unpleasant.

Go for:

Terrific and fun beauty and skincare department: It's filled with all kinds of fab latest and greatest brands that you may struggle to find elsewhere, including Korean skincare goodies (everything from creams to miracle sheet masks). There are also quite a few mini shops within the department to get the latest in high-tech facials, a Cowshed spa, Nails Inc nail bar, henna bar, and blowdry bar.

Food and confectionary section: Here, you'll find delicious UK brands and imports from North America for those feeling a bit homesick. You can stop and snack on everything from cupcakes to champagne and oysters.

Mariage Freres: there is an outfit of my absolute favourite tea brand, Mariage Freres, from France that I stock up on whenever I'm there.

Handbags: There is a fantastic and extensive department focused on handbags and accessories to explore.

Contemporary Women's Fashion: you can shop for brands exclusive to Selfridges or hard to find elsewhere in the city/country, as well as small outfits of some of the most popular 'high street' chains.

Aubaine: This Instagram favourite is a french bistro restaurant on the second floor next to the extensive women's shoe section. Decorated with whimsical wisteria falling from the ceiling, it is a beautiful space for lunch or a glass of champagne.

Housewares. There is an extensive collection of home goods to check out.

Quirkiness. There is even a psychic available on the lower ground level in the home goods and accessories floor!

Fortnums is such a special place to visit. Located between Green Park and Piccadilly Circus, it is housed in a beautiful building spanning several floors to explore with a rich history, including creating the Scotch Egg! Founded in 1707, Fortnum and Mason also holds a Royal Warrant by Appointment by HM The Queen and HRH The Prince of Wales.

While my mum and aunt were recently visiting London from Canada and Spain, we celebrated my birthday a couple of weeks early by having afternoon tea at The Orangery at Kensington Palace.

The setting is beautiful - the bright, white and airy room has large windows, soaring ceilings, and 18th century architecture, and is surrounded by the perfectly manicured gardens (you don't need to pay for admission to the palace to get to the Orangery). It is elegant, but not pretentious, so you can feel relaxed as you enjoy a traditional afternoon tea (or breakfast or lunch from their main menu), the only royal palace in London where you can do this. Adding to the magic of this setting is the The Orangery's history, which was once the place for Queen Anne's court entertainment.

You can choose from the 'English Orangery Afternoon Tea' or the 'Royal Afternoon Tea'; the difference between the two is that the Royal tea comes with a glass of bubbles (Laurent-Perrier Brut NV or Merlot Rosé Spumante NV) or a glass of the quintessentially English drink, Pimms.

There is a nice selection of sandwiches served, which include a very tasty coronation chicken, roast ham and English mustard, cucumber and fresh mint, egg mayo and cress, and smoked salmon and cream cheese. Light and tasty, these sandwiches were a great way to start the tea. I just wish that there was the opportunity to have them refilled as you are often offered in other settings.

Next came the scones, which are orange-scented and currant, served with classic Cornish clotted cream and English strawberry jam. The scones were light and delicious, and importantly didn't fill you up too much before you got to the cakes (which often happens to me). The tea pastries and cakes were also fairly light to finish off the tea, including a tasty Victoria Sponge. Important to me was that they weren't too sickly sweet or rich to enjoy.

There is a range of loose teas, tisanes, or coffees to choose from. For teas, you can choose from a range of black or green teas, or herbal and fruit infusions.

Vegetarian options and an afternoon tea made from gluten free ingredients are available upon request. There is also a children's afternoon tea available on request for £11.50 per child.

The English Orangery Afternoon Tea is £27.50 per person. The Royal Afternoon Tea ranges from £33.50 to £37.50 depending on which drink you choose.

Afternoon tea is served between 12.00 - 18.00. I highly recommend making a booking in advance because it is often very busy, particularly on weekends. They do accept walk-ins; however, be prepared to potentially wait in a queue for quite a long time.

After leaving The Orangery, be sure to take a look at the new White Garden nearby in the historic Sunken Garden at the Palace for Spring and Summer 2017. The Garden has been created in memory of Princess Diana, inspired by her life, image and style, and complements the current exhibition, Diana: Her Fashion Story. The garden is awash with beautiful tulips, narcisii, forget-me-nots, white English roses, Cosmos daisies, Gaura, and ornamental grasses. It is absolutely beautiful so take a walk around the entire square to see all angles of this thoughtful and stunning garden.

My favourite is the Melrose in rose gold with a white face. It's elegant, chic, and takes you from day to night easily. It's a fresh accessory for summer because of its soft, lightweight mesh strap! The stainless steel watch strap is easily adjustable to your wrist size without having to having it professionally re-sized. The watch is water resistant, and available in either silver or rose gold plating. Not only that, but like all of Daniel Wellington watches, this strap is also interchangeable!

Why not treat yourself (or get your mom a beautiful Mother's Day gift) with my discount code?? Type in RHEANNE15 at the checkout point before May 31, 2017 to get 15% off your order!